Reliance Jio is reportedly set to venture into the satellite internet space with a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which is a big leap in the Indian digital connectivity story. Under the revamped plan, the telecom major is poised to challenge the fast-growing satellite broadband market as well as the universal Internet penetration target in the country. With the advent of the Reliance Jio satellite broadband constellation, the company will soon be a part of the constellation-based broadband service provider industry, which will benefit millions of users in remote and unserved areas with low-latency and high-speed internet.
What Is a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Constellation?
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) has many satellites in orbit with altitudes between about 500 km and 2,000 km above the Earth’s surface. In contrast to traditional geostationary satellites that orbit at very high altitudes, LEO satellites orbit closer to the Earth. As a result, they can provide much quicker Internet speeds with much less latency. The number of satellites in LEO constellations can reach hundreds or thousands, with each constellation segment being highly fragmented.LEO networks are comprised of hundreds or thousands of satellites in each constellation, it is very disaggregated.
Why Jio’s Satellite Connectivity Plans Could Be a Game Changer
- Reliance Jio wants to take high-speed internet beyond the reach of fibre and Mobile networks.
- The company’s satellite project focuses on remote villages, mountainous areas, islands and disaster-stricken regions.
- Satellite broadband technology can fill the long-standing gap in India and support the connectivity of so-called underserved communities.
- The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) concept is projected to provide improved service and low latency compared to traditional satellites.
- Better infrastructure can enhance the delivery of e-governance, telemedicine, online banking and e-education.
- Satellite communications are able to facilitate communications in disaster situations.
Previous Year Questions (PYQs) on Satellites
| Exam & Year | Question (with Options) | Correct Answer |
| UPSC Prelims 2024 | With reference to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, consider the following statements: 1. They orbit closer to Earth than geostationary satellites. 2. They provide lower latency for communication services. 3. A single LEO satellite can provide uninterrupted global coverage. Options: (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only (C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3 | (A) 1 and 2 only |
| UPSC Prelims 2018 | Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched? 1. NAVIC – Navigation System 2. GSAT – Communication Satellites 3. CARTOSAT – Earth Observation Satellites Options: (A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only (C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3 | (D) 1, 2 and 3 |
| SSC CGL 2023 | Which orbit is commonly used for communication satellites providing television and telecommunication services? Options: (A) Polar Orbit (B) Low Earth Orbit (C) Geostationary Orbit (D) Sun-synchronous Orbit | (C) Geostationary Orbit |
| CDS 2022 | India’s NAVIC system primarily provides which service? Options: (A) Weather forecasting (B) Navigation and positioning (C) Military surveillance only (D) Satellite television | (B) Navigation and positioning |
| NDA 2021 | The GSAT series launched by India is associated with: Options: (A) Navigation (B) Communication (C) Earth Observation (D) Astronomy | (B) Communication |
| RRB NTPC 2020 | Which organisation is responsible for launching and operating India’s satellites? Options: (A) DRDO (B) ISRO (C) INCOIS (D) HAL | (B) ISRO |
| State PSC 2019 | Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites generally operate at an altitude of: Options: (A) Up to 2,000 km (B) 10,000–15,000 km (C) 20,000–25,000 km (D) 35,786 km | (A) Up to 2,000 km |
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Conclusion on Reliance Jio Satellite
The maiden development of the RELIANCE JIO that’s set to join the satellite broadband business with the LEO constellation is a big step towards India’s digital revolution. The company’s high-tech satellite flat-plate technology promises to provide high-speed internet service to hard-to-reach substandard areas. Moreover, the project may foster innovation, stimulate economic development, and address the digital gap. Reliance Jio’s LEO constellation plans could shape India’s connected future given the growing acceptance of satellite broadband. With satellite broadband on the rise, its LEO constellation could be a major growth enabler for India’s future.
